The "A" Team

Be cheerful through adversity

2011-10-03T12:01:00.004-07:00

This is my talk that I gave on 9/18/2011 in sacrament meeting. I thought I would share it here with you.

Being Cheerful through Adversity

Adversity will either be a constant or occasional companion for each of us throughout our lives. There is no way around it and we cannot avoid it. The only Question is how we will react to it. Will our adversities harden our hearts and be stumbling blocks or will they soften our hearts and be used as stepping stones?

We learn in 2nd Nephi, in order for God’s children to appreciate joy, they must also be subject to misery, and in order to accomplish the purposes of God, there must be “an opposition in all things.” Our adversities are a part of that opposition.

Elder Howard W Hunter said “We came to mortal life to encounter resistance. It was part of the plan for our eternal progress. Without temptation, sickness, pain, and sorrow there could be no goodness, virtue, appreciation for well-being or joy”

Some adversities are individual others effect larger groups of people. Think of the things we have seen around the world in our lifetime, wars, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, tsunamis and flooding. These huge catastrophes are tragedies, but may have another purpose. The lord uses adversities to send messages to his children. In Isaiah Chpt 29 He prophesied that in the last days the Lord would visit all nations with great natural disasters. In the Doctrine and Covenants, section 43, The Lord speaks of calling upon all nations of the earth by the mouth of his servants and also “by the voice of thundering’s, and by the voice of tempests, and by the voice of earthquakes, and great hailstorms, and by the voice of famines and pestilences of every kind” Surely these great adversities are not without some eternal purpose or effect. They can turn our hearts to God.

We can’t prevent these types of natural disasters but we can determine how we will react to them. Several years ago there was a devastating hurricane that destroyed thousands of homes in Florida. A news story quoted two different people who had suffered the same tragedy and received the same blessings: Each of their homes had been totally destroyed, but each of their family members had been spared death or injury. One said that this tragedy had destroyed his faith; how, he asked, could God allow this to happen? The other said that the experience had strengthened his faith. God had been good to him, he said. Though the family’s home and possessions were lost, their lives were spared and they could rebuild the home. The great gift of agency gives each of us the power to choose how we will act when we suffer adversity.

In the July 1998 Ensign, Elder Dallin H Oaks, recalls a memorable lesson he learned form Chicago Daily News columnist Sydney J Harris. Harris wrote:

“I walked with my friend, a Quaker, to the news stand the other night, and he bought a paper, thanking the newsie politely. The newsie didn’t even acknowledge it.”

“A sullen fellow, isn’t he? I commanded.

“Oh, he is that way every night,’ shrugged my friend.

“Then why do you continue to be so polite to him?’ I asked

“Why not?’ inquired my friend. ‘Why should I let him decide how I’m going to act?’

“As I thought about this incident later, Harris said, it occurred to me that the important word was ‘act.’ My friend acts toward people; most of us react toward them. He has a sense of balance which is lacking in most of us; he knows who he is, what he stands for, how he should behave. He refuses to return incivility for incivility, because then he would no longer be in command of his conduct”

I like that example because it challenges each of us to focus our attention on how we are personally going to respond to the adversities that are without fail going to happen to us throughout our lives.

One trick I try to use often when someone has wronged me or offended me is, replacing my anger and hurt with empathy. When I try to put myself in the other persons shoes and understand where they are coming from, my love for them increases and I am more sincerely able to pray for them. When I can sincerely pray for someone, it reminds me that, the worth of soles are great in the sight of God. He desires all of his children to repent so they might live with Him again, even those who have offended us.

President Eyring explains that the true test of life is “to see if we can endure difficulty. It is to see if we can endure it well. We pass the test by showing that we remembered Him and the commandments he gave us. And to endure well is to keep those commandments whatever the opposition, whatever the temptation, and whatever the tumult around us.”

It is not when life is good and we are comfortable when we grow the most. It is often when we are full of heartache and disappointment when we grow into strong characters, become more courageous, become closer to the Savior and strengthen our testimonies.

In the 1995 November Ensign Jane Bleak said “Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more. He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding and compassion, witch polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain.”

There was a time, not too long ago, when my life took a dramatic turn. Full of heartache and pain, I laid in my bed feeling sorry for myself asking questions like, “why me? And what did I do to deserve this? Where have I gone wrong?” My heart and mind where both full of, fear of the unknown and doubt that I could make it through this. As I lay there pondering, the spirit flooded my mind with things that I have learned like, Where there is fear there cannot be faith, a scripture in Timothy that says “For God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind”, also I heard my mission presidents words “Sister Daly, where is your faith?” That moment I knew what I needed to do to feel strong and be happy. I felt my Saviors love and I had confidence that He would carry me through if I would put my fears aside and exercise my faith in him.

I now try to resist the temptation to ask, “Why?” or feel sorry for myself instead, I ask for Heavenly Fathers guidance through my trials. He has blessed me with hope in the future , helped me to heal my heavy heart, made me more aware of the goodness around me, given me opportunities to serve, deepened my compassion for others, and Magnified my love for family and friends. Through it all I have gained a testimony that our challenge is to surrender our will to our Heavenly father because only then can we be refined and polished in the ways he has specifically designed for each of us.

Sometimes we can learn from the adversity of others. The courage, faith and action of one person who is able to cope with adversity cheerfully can be a great blessing to others who are strengthened by the example.

In the book titled Adversity, Elaine Cannon shares this valuable example:

“An old cowboy said he had learned life’s most important lessons from Hereford cows. All his life he had worked cattle ranches where winter storms took a heavy toll among the herds. Freezing rains whipped across the prairies. Howling, bitter winds piled snow into enormous drifts. Temperatures might drop quickly to below zero degrees. Flying ice cut into the flesh. In this maelstrom of nature’s violence most cattle would turn their backs to the ice blasts and slowly drift downwind, mile upon mile. Finally, intercepted by a boundary fence, they would pile up against the barrier and die by the scores.

“But the Herefords acted differently. Cattle of this breed would instinctively head into the windward end of the range. There they would stand shoulder-to-shoulder facing the storm’s blast, heads down against its onslaught.

“‘You always found the Herefords alive and well,’ said the cowboy. ‘I guess it’s the greatest lesson I ever learned on the prairies—just face life’s storms’” (Adversity [1987], 133–34).

Similarly, if we face up to our individual adversities or hardships, they can become a blessing. God will not give us adversities we cannot handle, and He will bless us richly for patiently doing the best we can in the circumstances.

I would like to end with a few quotes that I read often.

Elder M. Russell Ballard says, “Rather than waste time and energy worrying over our ability to endure to the end, “Just do the very best you can each day. Do the basic things and, before you realize it, your life will be full of spiritual understanding that will confirm to you that your Heavenly Father loves you. When a person knows this, then life will be full of purpose and meaning, making balance easier to maintain.”

Elder Richard G. Scott teaches that “sadness, disappointment, and severe challenges are events in life, not life itself. . . . They should not be allowed to become the confining center of everything you do.” With the reminder that the Lord told His prophet Lehi that “men are that they might have joy,” Elder Scott says, “[The Lord’s] intent is that each of us finds joy. It will not be conditional for you as you obey the commandments, have faith in the Master, and do the things that are necessary to have joy here on earth.”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland “… I testify of God’s love and the Savior’s power to calm the storm,” “They sustain us in our hour of need—and always will, even if we cannot recognize that intervention. Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.”

And finally

President Thomas S. Monson declares. “Our promised blessings are beyond measure, Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us. Fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.”

I challenge you to remember that you can be transformed through your righteous choices, To do the very best you can in your circumstances, Find Joy in life, remember the adversity that you face is meant to refine you, not to destroy you, and to have faith that the blessings will come! It is my testimony that our Father in heaven loves us and wants us to find joy as we exercise faith in him. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Catch up?

2011-07-08T23:35:00.002-07:00

I don't know how I could ever catch up... I have let myself get waaaaay too far behind in posting! I will try to be better!! My life is busy and I'm completely in love with my kids!! They continue to amaze me every day. =)

CUT to CUTE

2011-03-09T09:14:00.004-07:00

About a week ago, Isaiah came to me and said "Would it be alright if I cut Halia's hair" of course I said "NO!... did you?" "Just a little...on the back...and the sides" AHHH! We had quite a discussion about who cuts hair and who doesn't and why. This is just some of the Hair I found on the floor in the toy room. He actually didn't do too bad of a job. At least he didn't chop it off at the roots. It could have been way worse.

Auntie Megan came to the rescue and gave her a super cute hair cut!! Thank you Megs, You are GREAT!

Lehi Days

2011-03-08T08:56:00.007-07:00

I have been going to Lehi Days Rodeo since before I can even remember. It is fun to go back every year and watch my kids enjoy the same activities that I did when as a child. It brings back lots of fun memories and strangely makes me want to own a ranch with horses. We enjoyed our day with Shannon, Donald, Kevin, My mom and dad, Christi, Lenard, Jon and Sadie. The weather was perfectly warm with just the right amount of sunshine.

Halia was first up at the Chicken Chase!

She came back without a chicken but with a big smile on her face!

Zayah's waiting with Uncle Kevin for his turn

He ran fast but those little chicks got away!

Their cousin Sadie caught one =) The kids were excited. They got to hold it and pet it. Way to go Sadie =)

It was a Long warm day for Kaybrie. She had to take a break about halfway through.

The line was SOOOOO long for the pony ride but, that didn't stop the kids from waiting their turn.

Cowboy Zayah

Halia's pony had hearts on it's bum. She thought that was cute.

It just wouldn't be Lehi days if the kids didn't get to get completely filthy and sticky!

It was seriously such a fun day!

Kaybrie turned 1

2011-01-24T22:11:00.006-07:00

We're singing to you sista!

Wipe my face please!

MMMMM!

Our friend Tihati and her daddy.

Kaybrie's 1st birthday party was so fun! We originally wanted to have it had the park but due to 70% chance of rain we moved it to the church last minute(it didn't rain). It worked out and the kids had a great time. We still had a bounce house and a pinata :) Even though it was only 3 days before Christmas we, had a lot of friends and family come to help us celebrate her special day! She is growing quickly and SO smart. I love her sweet personality and her hugs and kisses! I know I say it often but I truly am so grateful to be her mother. She is a blessing to our little family!

Snowflakes fell!!

2011-01-24T15:06:00.003-07:00

Halia ran outside with no shirt or shoes on to see the snow. I quickly had her go inside to get dressed and luckily it was still coming down when we got back outside. What a fun thing for the kids to experience here in AZ Where the sun seems to ALWAYS be shinning =)

Day after Christmas 2010

2011-01-24T14:49:00.003-07:00

Isaiah 4yrs old

Halia 2yrs old

Kaybrie 1yrs old

My babies!

I tried to get some cute pictures of the kids before church but Poor Kaybrie was NOT in the mood. Good thing she is cute even when she is upset.

Uncle Rick

2011-01-24T14:39:00.003-07:00

Safety first!!

Halia was VERY nervous... She doesn't like loud, fast things.

Thumbs up!! Good ride buddy

Before Uncle Rick moved to LV he promised Zayah a ride on his HD. Zayah loved Uncle Rick so much! Zayah cried when the day came for him to leave.

It "SNOWED" in QC

2011-01-24T14:26:00.004-07:00

SNOWBALL FIGHT!!! :)

She LOVED the snow!

My mom is ADORABLE!

Kaybrie was not liking Santa! It's blurry because I didn't want her to jump out of his lap so I took it as fast as I could..ha, oh well

Nancy's neighborhood had a fun Christmas party last month. I'm so glad she invited us. They had snow, raffles(Nancy got a gift certificate for a restaurant and my mom got a scooter), food, hey rides, bon fires, hot chocolate and more. The kids had a great time and so did I!

Kaybrie's hospital stay

2010-12-06T22:51:00.007-07:00

We got home from camping around 6:30pm. We showered and packed for the Hospital. We got to the Hospital around 8pm her temp was 104.9 and I explained her history of UTI's. They drew blood, got a urine sample and started an IV. She was admitted with a Kidney infection a short time later and in her room around 2am. They started the antibiotics right away but it took two and a half days for her fevers to finally go down. The Dr wanted her to be fever free for 24 hours before he would release her to go home. On the day before we were going to go home I noticed her little hand turning RED under the tape near her IV site. By the time the RN was concerned about it (24hours later) she had developed some kind of infection on her hand that caused blistering :( We ended up having to stay 2 more days and had to start an additional antibiotic for her hand. We were there a total of 6days and 5 nights. She has a procedure this week to see if we can figure out why she keeps getting these dang uti's.

I don't have pictures of her the first few days we were there because She was so sick and didn't want me to put her down long enough for me to even think about the camera. But here are a few pictures of her the last few days.

This is a picture I took on Friday on the way home from camping. Can't you tell she isn't feeling well. Her temp was aprox 104+ :( poor baby.

Her Best Cousin Keala came to visit her several times, They were so cute and always happy to see each other!

playing in the Jail crib ;)

Michelle gave me a break so I could shower. THANK YOU!!!!! You're awesome!

My Cousins wife Cristy (who's son was just a few rooms down form us) Made this adorable hat for her. She loved it!

Since she couldn't get on the floor to crawl (I mean scoot) around I used the window to entertain her.

Her poor hand :(

We had lots of visitors =) I especially liked these ones!!

Breakfast on the last day of her stay!

We are very blessed to have such wonderful friends and family. Thank you everyone for your prayers and thoughts and visits and phone calls and gifts and love etc... We have a lot to be thankful for!!!

Needless to say it was a very busy week and I am glad to be home. I love this time of year. It truly is the season of miracles.

Thanksgiving week

2010-12-06T13:06:00.009-07:00

My sister Dixie came with her family for the week and my kids and I couldn't have been more excited!! Here are some of the fun things we did while they were here!!

The Kids earned a trip to Amazing Jake's by being good to each other!

Getting ready to go inside!

Kaybrie lovin Toddler town

The BOYS (JJ, Zayah & Steven) not so sure about this Frog hopper!

Blurry picture but, by the looks on their faces...I think they LOVE it ;)

Zayah N Macey getting ready to go on the "roller coaster"

JJ, Halia & Dixie getting dizzy on the tea cups!

JJ, Shannon and Halia

We made hand shaped sugar cookies and let the kids decorate them to look like turkeys using frosting and chocolate chips. I thought they all did a GREAT job.

Brooklyn showing off her masterpiece :)

Macey

Zayah

We went camping at the Imperial Sand Dunes near Yuma AZ. It was so fun. I got to try out my little camp trailer for the first time and I LOVED it and was SO glad I had it. I haven't been riding in a really long time! I bailed off my bike on my first ride then I didn't wanna get back on. I have three precious little things that I worry about. I can't afford to get hurt when they are counting on me :) but it was fun!

Handsome JJ

Zayah rode the Zinger. This is the very same bike that I learned to ride on when I was about 5 . He did a GREAT job even though every time he rode my heart started pounding and my stomach was in knots. It was fun to see him improve. He is a brave little 4yr old! I'm very proud of him!

Kaybrie and I had to cut our vacation short because she spiked a fever Thanksgiving night. On Friday I drove her home and took her to the ER... this story TBC in the next post!

Visit with The grandpas

2010-11-12T22:01:00.002-07:00

Grandpa Aumua came to Arizona and brought Great grandpapa. The kids really Loved visiting playing with them. Isaiah and Great grandpapa Telefoni Aumua. He is 90 years old and speaks very little English but neither of those things stopped him from enjoying his great grandchildren. He was very funny and had the kids laughing and smiling!

Kaybs just chillin in her little chair.

Halia and Isaiah with Grandpa Telefoni Aumua Jr.

We haven't seen him since Feb 2010. Kaybrie was only 2 months old but seemed like she knew exactly who Grandpa was =)

I'm Glad that they made the long trip from Hawaii and that we got to share some of their time while they were here.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-12T21:27:00.004-07:00

We were able to dress up three times this year... We went to Shannon and Donalds (my sister and brother in law) Ward trunk or treat, our own ward trunk or treat and also on Halloween to pass out candy and carve pumpkins at Shannon and Donalds house. It was so fun to see the kids get excited about dressing up! I really love the Fall and Winter holiday season!

Our family before the trunk or treat with the Weirs!

Princess Ladybug eating candy before dinner!!

Baby Bumble bee fully enjoying herself in the stroller =)

My Knight in Shinning Armor lookin sooo handsome!

Us at the end of the night...They were not really into posing for another picture!

Our pumpkins from Sunday. Zayah and Shannon did the skull and Halia and I did the happy face!

Camp LoMia TMR

2010-10-25T17:16:00.006-07:00

We had a GREAT time at our ward camp out. It was held at camp LoMia. Being there brought back a flood of girls camp memories, it was great. My mom and I took my three kids and went. We were the first ones there and it was actually 4 hours until the next family came. We played on the tire swing, played in the rain , got really cold and hung out in the craft cabin for a while and let the kids run. They held a ward talent show (those are always good). We just spent time with friends and got to know people a little better. We are blessed to have great people in our ward! I can't wait to do it again.

The Yucky worm they found after the rain had stopped!

Isaiah and Maren P. Playin with fiya

Baby Max P. N Baby Kaybs Chillin in the Pack n Play.

Halia , Eliza W., and Grant P.

Kaybrie Lookin so cute!!

Zayah and Lia helping grandma try to start a fire in the rain before anyone else got there.

Zayah found lots of sticks. I think this one was his favorite =)

Zayah and Kaybrie

2010-10-25T17:12:00.001-07:00

Halia missed out on this Photo op =( She was already at church with grandma.

Fun at the Park!

2010-10-25T16:49:00.002-07:00

On the day Megan and Rob were packing up and moving. My mom and I took the kids to play at the park. It was a little warm but we still had lots of fun!!

Kaybrie LOVES the swing!

Brigger, Halia and ?? some kid having fun with us!

I love this picture... can you see Zayah crashing on his bike in front of the girls in the background? No worries, he didn't get hurt =)

Bounce Jungle...again =)

2010-10-25T15:51:00.002-07:00

I love Bounce Jungle because... The joy it brings...

Happy Faces...

Big monkeys holding bananas!

AND... then the real reason =)

Zayah Turned 4!!

2010-10-25T15:04:00.003-07:00

Zayah Turned 4 on Tuesday September 28th. He had a good day at school, Got to open presents at home and Grandma Daly made him a Toothless dragon cake!! I had class that night so Grandpa and Grandma Daly took the kids to Peter Piper Pizza for dinner. If you can't tell by his =) smiles =) he had a GREAT day!!
Lovin the Lia monster in the back ground!! She is singing HB with all her might!!

Zayah takes after his Uncle Todd, He is a great gift opener =)

On Friday we celebrated at Aunt Susie's pool with family. We swam and had cake and ice cream...again! Thank you to everyone for helping make his Birthday a special one to him!

Mommy lighting the candles on the How to Train Your Dragon cake.

His Gun from the Weirs!

His Dino from the Ungas.

Zayah with his cousins Sadie and Lenard.

Swimming FUN!!

2010-09-23T16:38:00.004-07:00

We had a lot of fun swimming this summer! Isaiah went from being super scared to jump off of the side of the pool into my arms to doing flips off of the diving board!! We are glad to have family and friends share their pools with us so we don't over heat!!

Bounce Jungle

2010-09-23T16:25:00.004-07:00

Halia, Rebecca and friend =)

The girls and I went to Bounce Jungle in Chandler with some friends of ours. It was so much fun! I'm so glad to have friends to share good times with!

Megan and Brigger

Greens Peak on 4th of July

2010-09-21T13:06:00.004-07:00

Rob, Megan, Brigger, Kevin, Donald, Shannon, Jon, Mom, Me, Isaiah, Halia, and Kaybrie went on this trip. It was so fun and the weather was beautiful. I love our family!
Adorable!!

Watching fireworks. It was so cold!!

Big, blue eyed Brigg!

Honey and Zayah

They got new camp chairs and loved them!

Back in AZ June 2010

2010-09-21T12:51:00.005-07:00

Rob got the Zinger running and gave Zayah a lesson. SOOO fun! I remember learning on the very same bike! Tried to started it but...

Needed uncle Robs help.Away he went. Brigger giving Lia a ride...Kind of.

Megan even took it out for a spin.

Colorado

2010-09-21T12:27:00.008-07:00

Kaybrie eat solid food for the first time.

Macey and Zayah rode their bikes on the BMX track!

Halia Turned 2

Brooklyn and Macey watch Halia open her bracelet from the Gustins.

She LOVED her princess birthday cake!

Zayah on his skate board. Endless beautiful days spent playing outside!! JJ and Halia "sharing" a lolly pop.

Mothers day! I didn't get the "funny face" memo =)

A few Pictures of the fun we had in Colorado with the Moores!! Thank you for all you did for us while we were with you!

Better late than never... Arboretum

2010-09-21T12:00:00.005-07:00

Halia, Brigger & JJ
Cousins

Halia ridin' the turtle

Rob and Brigg

Todd and Brock

The crew! One big happy family!

Two weeks after getting to Colorado, Dixie and I came with all of the kids down to AZ to visit while the Gustins were in town! It was so good to see everyone and be together.

Easter

2010-04-05T12:48:00.003-07:00

7 children, 7 and under!! We are having fun here in durango.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-01T11:47:00.004-07:00

On Christmas eve Kaybrie and I were able to go home from the hospital. We went to Shannons house were Zayah and Lia were waiting to meet their new baby sister. The kids helped act out Luke 2 and Santa (grandpa) and Mrs. Clause (grandma) came to celebrate with us. Thanks Shannon and Donald for hosting a great evening!!

The Christmas Tree hunt!

2010-01-01T10:42:00.003-07:00

Lia was cold and Heavy to carry so Jaba made a backpack out of his sweat shirt. She stayed warm and happy the rest of the time! Jaba, Lia, Kevin, Zayah, Koko, MomZayah Playing with the snow. The Tree hunters back with their kill!! Just to prove I was there =) My mom, Kevin and our family took a trip up to the White Mountains to cut two trees this year. It was so fun. I was about 36 weeks pregnant and it was very cold. The kids did such a great job. We hiked around the forest for about two hours to make sure we got the tree we wanted. I know mom loves her tree and we do too. I hope to make this a tradition in our family. On the car ride we sang Christmas songs and talked about Christmas and why we celebrate certain things. We also enjoyed some hot chocolate. Maybe next time we wont have to go so far ;)

Beautiful Kaybrie

2009-12-29T23:23:00.006-07:00

Kaybrie Loimata Rae Aumua

Dr. Daddy

Grandma Daly

Hearing test! Really she is jamin' to some Christmas music :)

The A team is proud to announce the arrival of Kaybrie Loimata Rae Aumua as our newest member. She came to us on December 22nd at 6:48 pm. She weighed 7.1 lbs and was 19.5in long. She came via unexpected C-Section last minuet but we are happy she is here safe and healthy. We just LOVE her. She is such a sweet baby and a joy in our family.

Halloween

2009-12-29T21:51:00.005-07:00

We got to go to Colorado and hang out with the Moore family for Halloween this year. Jaba got to help James move and Dixie and I got to play with the kids ;). I must say Jaba and James make a great team (even if they do get the truck stuck in the mud). The kids had a lot of fun playing together and getting to dress up. Isaiah was a ninja or the first part of the day and a lion that evening. Lucky guy! Halia was a pink cowgirl and a very cute one at that! We love the Moores and are happy they are only a 7 hour drive away as apposed to 20 hours. We can't wait to see you guys again!!

Elder Daly came home in April 09!!

2009-09-11T19:54:00.002-07:00

Dad, Elder Daly, Mom Buddies! Grandpa and Zayah Lia finally got to meet uncle Kevin!!! She wasn't to sure. Here we are, Happy he is home and safe!! =)

Buju's Baptism April 09

2009-09-11T19:28:00.005-07:00

Halia, Sarona, Isaiah and Onias. This was on our way to Utah for the baptism.Buju and Zayah.Lia and Tala. Lia LOVED the li hi mui orange. That stuff stains clothes! Amaya and Lia. (Amaya 7 months, Lia 11 months)

We had a good visit with family in Utah! Congrats to Buju for making wise choices and being a good example to his family and friends!!! Love you Buju!

April 09 lake trip

2009-09-11T15:50:00.003-07:00

Zayah and Uncle Kevin.

Jaba

Windy Mom.

Yummy!

CHEESE!!!!!

2009-09-03T10:51:00.004-07:00

I told Lia "Smile for the camera" and...

HAHA she's a funny girl.

Samoan Flag day in Utah (July)

2009-09-03T10:09:00.003-07:00

We went to Utah in July to watch Tausala dance at the Samoan Flag Day. We had a lot of fun spending time with family. As always Jaba put on an amazing show!

Harmony and Anessa

Portia, Lehi and baby Amaya

Jaba Doin his thing!!

Zayah "watching" daddy dance.

Lia getting her groove on!

You go girl!!!

Gas station in Beaver, on the way home! The kids loved this big chair.

Crossing over the Grand Canyon. We got out and walked across the foot bridge.

Lake in July!

2009-09-03T09:40:00.003-07:00

Even if the boat doesn't work we still enjoy the water!!! =) We love the lake!!!

Halia turned 1!!

2009-08-21T15:58:00.002-07:00

Yummy cake!!!

Auntie Sunshine and the birthday girl!!

Halia turned 1 on May 16, 2009. We had a swim party at Jaba's cousins house. Lots of friends and family came to help celebrate her day!!!

I know...

2009-08-20T09:30:00.004-07:00

You thought we dropped off the face of the earth!!! Well, we didn't and here are some things we have done since April!

Halia and I were able to go to Indiana for James' graduation at the beginning of May!!

She absolutely loved to plane ride over. She would stare out the window and say "ooooh, WOW!!!"

We went to a COOL library and they brought out this Dino robot. He loved it when you pet him. Halia was terrified when it started waling towards her.

Halia and JJ in the swing at some ghetto park in down town Indy. Halia 11 months, JJ 7 months.

Halia at The Indy race track. She was not happy when I had to put her ear plugs in.!!

Our Easter Day!

2009-04-15T22:04:00.005-07:00

Discovering their Easter baskets!

We got a few pictures after church

Halia's turn to drive home!

Halia lovin on auntie Nancy!

Cold and windy!

2009-04-15T21:40:00.003-07:00

We went to the lake last Friday thinking it would be nice and warm....WRONG! It was cold and windy! Did that stop us from having a good time? No way! All the boys still got in, and endured wake boarding on the white cap waves made by the wind.

Pony & Shades!!

2009-04-15T21:21:00.004-07:00

Halia's first pony tail!! Kinda silly I know but, this means her hair is growing!! =) and she LOVES her shades!!

Icky grass!!

2009-04-08T20:38:00.003-07:00

Halia has this thing with grass! She does NOT want to touch it! When we go to the park I can just bring a blanket, put her on it and not worry about her crawling (I mean scooting) off. It's kinda nice. Well, the other day Jaba and I went with mom and the kids to chillies. Afterwards, Zayah wanted to run on the grassy hill out front. I put Halia down and took some pictures. She is hilarious!

The carnival at Superstition Springs Mall

2009-04-08T20:23:00.004-07:00

Picking his ducks.

Choosing his prize! He chose a kitty cat??

Lia's prize was a dolphin. she didn't want to touch the ducks =)

This was the helicopter ride! Zayah LOVED it! He also rode the swings and the tea cups.

Last month we saw the Carnival at Superstition Springs Mall from the freeway and decided to take the kids. It was fun. Zayah acted like it was Disneyland. It was FAR from it but he didn't mind.

Our first lake trip of the season!

2009-04-08T20:14:00.004-07:00

In March was our first lake trip of the season with the Daly's. We had a lot of fun! Shannon and Donald, Steve-o and Ali, and Jeff and Ali came too! Jaba wasn't able to make it this time. I'm sure we will have more fun memories at the lake this summer, thanks to Rob and Megan! Love you guys!

A fun weekend with the Snuka Kids!

2009-04-07T09:04:00.004-07:00

Last weekend Jaba's cousin Heka went to watch her husband (Sim Snuka) wrestle at Wrestle Mania and we got to watch the kids. We had a lot of fun! Here are some pictures.

Nina giving O a ride!

Nina giving Jaba a ride right into the ditch!!! Thank goodness no one got hurt!!

Be careful, You two are giving Auntie Suzi a heart attack!!

Zayah and Saini playing on the swing set!

Halia and Saini

Self portrait!

Nina was sleepy!

Zayah at the park! It was kinda chilly!

Blowing out the candles

Aunt Donna & Uncle Dean stayed the night Friday night. It was Aunt Donna's Birthday Saturday so, we made her a cake and sang Happy birthday to her! We Love you Aunt Donna!

Donna & Lia eating cake and ice cream!

Best friends!! These two didn't want the fun to end!

Our fun also included watching conference!

We are grateful to have some of Jaba's family so close. We love you Jimmy, Haka, Penina, Jamesa, O'nias, and Saini! Thank you for Letting us spend time with you!

GO ZAYAH!!

2009-03-23T09:19:00.004-07:00

Isaiah LOVES to dance like his Daddy!! You GO boy!!

10 months

2009-03-18T12:54:00.003-07:00

Halia is 10 months old!!!

She can say "uh oh", "koko" (the dogs name), "umah" (kiss), "mama", "dada". She is getting so big! She is such a cuddle bug and is terrified to go high! She has such a fun personality!!! We love her and want her stop growing up so fast!!!

When life gives you LEMONS...

2009-03-18T12:40:00.003-07:00

Make LEMONADE!! Zayah did =)

Aloha Festival!!!

2009-03-04T09:10:00.003-07:00

It's Aloha Fest time again!!!

We want everyone to come who can!!!

When? March 14-15

(Jaba dances on 14th, I think around 3pm)

Where? Tempe town lake

It will probably be HOT so bring water and and umbrella for shade if you want!

Let me know if you have any questions!

See you all there!! =)

Sunday drivin!

2009-02-19T09:51:00.001-07:00

Every Sunday we don't make the kids sit in their seats to and from church (we go the back way). Zayah often gets to "drive" home. He feels so special! I remember when I was a little girl sitting on my dads lap driving home from church! Those are good memories!

Heart day

2009-02-19T09:41:00.002-07:00

For Valentine's day Suzi had a bad head ache so we didn't go out or do much. We just enjoyed spending time together as a family.

Zayah's new hat

2009-02-19T09:20:00.003-07:00

HE LOVES IT!!

He was so cute trying to wear it like his daddy!

Zayah & baby Brig

2009-02-19T09:18:00.004-07:00

Zayah was so happy to get to hold his new baby cousin Brigger! We are happy he is finally here! Congrats to Rob and Megan!

There is beauty all around!

2009-01-24T19:37:00.004-07:00

These are some pictures of the beautiful rainbow that was in the sky Friday evening. I took them from the balcony. The pictures of course don't do it justice.

Update

2009-01-21T16:19:00.005-07:00

Standing at the couch

Halia and her Great Uncle Jr. At Leilani's wedding. It was cold!

Pretty smile!

Halia Is 8 months old. She started crawling about a week ago, She loves to clap and mimic the sound of growling and da da, She is pulling herself up to stand at the couch, She has 4 teeth, 2 on the bottom and 2 on the top. The ones on the top are not her front teeth they are her fangs. She is our vampire baby =) (Zayah grew his in that same order) She is officially not nursing anymore and doing great with the bottle. She has been sleeping 12 hours with no interrupting mommy and daddy's sleep for about a week (HOORAY!!!). She is getting bigger and more fun every minute. She has such a fun personality and we are enjoying watching her learn and grow.

Halia, Grandma Daly & Isaiah.

Zayah and Halia swinging together at Grandma and Grandpa Daly's.

Isaiah Will be 2 & a 1/2 in March. He Sleeps in a big boy bed, Loves reading books, Play fighting with his dad and anyone who wants to (sometimes with people that don't), Riding his bikes, Playing with his cousins especially Sadie Starks and Siani Snuka. He LOVES to be outside, getting dirty, going to the park, going on walks. He has a love for dancing. He is a very active two year old and keeps us on our toes. That's what little boys are for. Right?

Pirate Zayah. ARRRRGetting his groove on!Zayah and His Uncle Lehi at the dinner party the night before Leilani's wedding.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-08T13:05:00.004-07:00

Christmas EveJaba had to work Christmas eve until 9:30 so we hung out with My parents and some of my siblings and their families. We drove to a neighborhood that is known for their Christmas lights. Isaiah LOVED it. Not to long after we got home we got a special surprise! Daddy came home from work early. We drank hot apple cyder and sat by the fire. It was a nice evening.

Christmas Day

We had a Very special Christmas morning! Santa was SO good to us this year. We feel very blessed! Christmas day was fun and relaxing. We opened presents, Talked to Kevin, had a gift exchange, opened more presents, played games and just enjoyed being around family! Thank you everyone who helped make this year such a special one!

For Jaba's Birthday!

2008-12-15T14:04:00.005-07:00

We started the day going to our ward's breakfast with Santa! Isaiah understands who Santa is this year and his cute little face lights up when he talks about him! He wasn't scared at all to sit on his lap and tell him that he wants a Spider man back pack.

We were able to go home after breakfast and take a nap. When we woke up we went to Red Mountain Park. We fed the ducks, tried to get Jaba's remote controlled boat to work on the lake but it didn't. Jaba and Zayah played football. Halia Loved the swings. We Spent about 3 hours enjoying each others company and the weather.

After the park we headed to Tempe Town Lake to watch Tausala (the group Jaba used to dance with) dance. It was freezing there so we didn't stay long but it was really nice to see some old friends.

We came home, sang happy birthday and then had dinner together. Jaba had to dance a show but wasn't gone for to long. When he got home we had cake and Ice cream. My parents were out of town so it was just our little family. I asked Jaba how his birthday was and he said it was just what he wanted, spending the day with his family.

Thank you for the cards and gifts and phone calls. It helped to make his day special!

By the light of the moon

2008-12-15T13:15:00.001-07:00

We often go outside before dinner to burn off some energy. These days it just keeps getting darker and darker earlier. Last week we were playing and before we knew it, it was dark and we were playing by the light of the beautiful moon! Light or dark we still have fun outside.

And Yes, I'm letting my son jump on the trampoline with a fresh head laceration! But just look how happy it makes him!

Happy birthday Jaba!!!

2008-12-13T10:13:00.004-07:00

Snow boarder!

Dancer!

Wake boarder!Steer wrestler!Husband, Father & SO much more!Happy Birthday to my handsome, funny, talented, silly, loving, hardworking, amazing, Best friend! I hope you have a good one Jaba! I love you!

Saturday night.

2008-12-11T13:01:00.004-07:00

We decided to still go to the Temple lights Saturday night after our big day in the ER. We went with some of my family. We got to listen to 2-5-9 sing and see the pretty lights. Both Zayah and Halia loved it! After, we went to Red Robin. Yummy. Zayah got a treat for being so good at the hospital he thought he was gonna get to eat that big ice cream all by himself. Good thing he shared it with daddy! We got home, changed his band aid and let him look at it for the first time. He looked long and hard. We got him some Car's band aids so he would be more excited about wearing them. He is back to his good old self again. Running around and nearly giving me a heart attack every day! I love you son!

Isaiah's trip to Banner Gateway's ED

2008-12-11T12:36:00.004-07:00

This is him not really in the mood to talk to anyone! What a sad face!

Saturday was a tough day for Isaiah! I was getting ready for Megan's baby shower, Halia was sleeping and Jaba took Isaiah outside to play. A few minuets later they came rushing in the house!! I hear Zayah crying and ran to see what had happened. All I see is BLOOD everywhere! At this point Jaba is tearing his shirt off to put pressure in Zayah's forehead. He was running outside, tripped on a shovel and hit his head, right in the middle of his forehead, on the corner of a brick and it made a pretty deep cut. We took him to the Hospital and he got three small stitches. today the stitches came out. I hope he wont have to bad of a scar. He did so well at the hospital. The worst part was getting the shots to numb the area for the stitches. Now every morning when he wakes up he says "No Doctor. I all better" Poor guy! We are so grateful it wasn't worse! Sorry Megan for missing the shower!

Watching TV waiting for the Doctor!

He fell asleep after they cleaned it but before they stitched it.After they stitched it. You can see the sadness in his eye's of what he just went through!A short time later he was bouncing off the walls. He couldn't wait to get out of there!

Putting up the tree!

2008-12-09T12:41:00.004-07:00

Opening the box!Zayah helping tighten the bottom so the tree wont fall over.I thought this was a cute picture. It is Zayah flinching as the branch is falling into place =)The tree is up but it took us a few days before we put any ornaments on it

So far only one glass ornament has been broken and If you ask Zayah he now knows that it's decorations not toy's =) I love Christmas, It just seems to be taking me a little longer to get in the right spirit! Zayah can hardly wait and LOVES looking at Christmas lights. We hope you all have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Funny girl!

2008-11-30T15:09:00.006-07:00

Halia was cracking us up last night. First of all it was cold and we don't have many warm things for her yet so she was in Zayah's size 18months outfit from last year. It's kinda slippery. When she sits on the floor she likes to bounce and that motion scooted her around the room. it was fun!

She actually likes to bounce anywhere and when she is on the ottoman, She ROCKS!

Thanksgiving at the Daly's

2008-11-30T14:33:00.004-07:00

Halia's first Thanksgiving!

The FOOD! YUMMY!

The Kids Table. Seems like we are missing a few Children

The Big Kids table before we all sat down!
Jon and Zayah playing out side! It was a beautiful day!

This Thanksgiving was at my mom's house. We had a great day. We loved having Uncle Dean and Aunt Donna there. The food was awesome and so was the company! We did miss Dad and the Moore's, Gustin's and the Jackson's! The day was complete with looking through the black Friday ad's and planning the morning to staying up until 2 playing games! I Love Thanksgiving! We also missed Jaba's family very much! We have yet to spend a thanksgiving or Christmas with them but that doesn't mean we are any less grateful for them! We Miss you Aumua's!!!!

6 MONTHS OLD

2008-11-16T20:07:00.003-07:00

Our baby girl Halia is 6 months old today! The time is flying by and it is a bitter sweet feeling! She is sitting up by herself although she does not roll over. She loves to laugh at her brother when he is silly, likes being outside better then being in, and LOVES to splash in the bath! She is our beautiful girl and we love her very much! Here are the pictures from our photo shoot today =)

Gilbert Days Parade

2008-11-16T15:24:00.003-07:00

Saturday was the Guilbert days parade. This is the first time in a LOT of years that I watched from the side instead of walking with the float. It was a beautiful day!

My niece Sadie is on the front. She did a great job waving!

Zayah saw Grandma coming and was so excited he ran out and gave her a big hug!

Zayah LOVED the school buses! He was crying to ride them!

What a fun family tradition. I hope we continue it for lots of years. I remember riding on the float when I was 5 and how special I felt. 3 more years until it's Zayah's turn =)

A day at the Phoenix Zoo

2008-11-13T20:49:00.003-07:00

Today Rebecca and I took our kids to the Phoenix Zoo! I had a great time and I think the kids did to as far as I could tell =) Zayah got to ride a camel and he thought that was so cool. I was a little hesitant to let him but I said he's only 2 once and he really wanted to do it. I'm glad he got to ride.
This is baby Halia checkin out her cool big brother on the camel =)

This is the 2.5 year old orangutan. Her name is Asia. It was so fun to watch her play!

We got home around 5, made dinner, danced around the house then put Halia to bed. Zayah and I were watching a movie and Halia woke up I went to sooth her back to sleep and when I came back not 1 min later a found him like this. We had a long fun day and we LOVE having Rebecca and her family back in Arizona =)

Usery Pass

2008-11-11T14:47:00.003-07:00

Saturday Jaba and Zayah went on a hike with Michelle and Loni. Zayah was only wearing his crocks and ended up barefoot =) He is a trooper. The weather is beautiful!

Lets go fly a kite

2008-11-11T14:32:00.003-07:00

Sunday was perfect for flying a kite. Good thing mom had one =) Zayah loved every minute of it and Halia even gave it a try!

Fun with Friends

2008-11-06T19:43:00.002-07:00

We had so much fun today at Red Mountain Park. We went with Rebecca and her twin girls (Carol and Ruby), Mom and the Starks' kids. Halia got to swing for her first time and she totally enjoyed it!

This is Ruby. She was full of giggles on the swings!! It was fun to see the kids have a good time!

This is Carol. Carol and Ruby are 10 1/2 months and Halia is 5 1/2 but by looking at them they are almost the same size =)

We walked around the Lake and fed the ducks crackers. I think that was Zayah's favorite part! Thanks Rebecca for bringing your girls to see us! We had a great time and look forward to having many more play dates =)

Sunday Morning

2008-11-03T17:19:00.005-07:00

Sunday was Stake conference and it didn't start until 1pm. It was such a beautiful morning! We went with Mom to Usery Pass and went on a nature walk and let the kids enjoy the park! It was a great way to start our Sunday!

Bath time

2008-11-03T16:59:00.002-07:00

We are growing Zayah's hair and it is at a very hard stage! But these kids sure do love bath time!

Halloween Night

2008-11-03T16:03:00.003-07:00

Jaba had to work Halloween night =( so the Weir's invited us over to trick of treat in their neighborhood, have dinner and watch scary movies =) The starks and grandma came too. We had such a fun time. Halia was sleeping so she got to stay with uncle Donald and help him pass out candy while we went trick or treating. It was so hot out and by the time we got back to the house Zayah's costume was soaked with sweat. The kids got to try on Aunt Shannon's wig. Halia didn't like it so much but Zayah loved it! =) Honey the dog couldn't leave Halia alone. I think she needs a baby Shannon and Donald ;) Mom said she would watch the kids so we took them home, put them to bed and when Jaba got home we went back. Nancy, Marie, Ali, Steve, Jeff, Rob and Megan were all there. We had a great time! Thanks Weir's!!

Halloween Morning

2008-11-03T15:46:00.002-07:00

Isaiah wanting to be just like daddy!

Him being totally grossed out =)

Jaba missed out on the FHE when we were carving pumpkins so Halloween morning He got to create his masterpiece!

TRUNK OR TREAT

2008-10-30T12:53:00.004-07:00

Miss Tinker Bell!!

Captain no Hook!!

Zayah trying really hard to make the Laie Boyz sign like his daddy!

PUMPKIN CARVING

2008-10-30T12:40:00.004-07:00

For Monday night FHE we carved pumpkins with a few of my sisters and their families! Isaiah had so much fun but there was no way he was going to touch the pumpkin guts =)

Fire Dance

2008-10-28T20:10:00.004-07:00

Here is a link to see Jaba and Loni doing there thing. They sure look HOT to me! =)http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3637541055607322502

Welcome to our blog

2008-10-28T14:29:00.003-07:00

Hi friends and family!
Welcome the the Team Aumua blog spot!
Stay tuned for fun pictures and stories of our life!!